F1 Legends: Lewis Hamilton Expresses Concern for F1’s Future A

F1 Legends: Lewis Hamilton Expresses Concern for F1’s Future Amid Schumacher Comparisons

Lewis Hamilton has voiced concern over the future direction of Formula 1, drawing a comparison to the sport’s golden era epitomized by Michael Schumacher.

With sweeping regulation changes coming in 2026—including increased reliance on electric power and new chassis rules designed to make cars lighter, smaller, and more environmentally friendly—Hamilton fears the soul of F1 may be at risk.

Speaking to Sky Sports F1, the seven-time world champion said:

“I don’t think it’s going in the right direction personally, but maybe I’ll be surprised next year—maybe we’ll arrive and the cars will be really nice.”

Hamilton lamented the current generation of F1 cars, which he described as the heaviest he’s ever raced, and expressed frustration with the declining engine noise.

“The direction we’re going, we’re going slower, the cars are getting heavier. Next year the cars are getting lighter, but still—this generation has been the heaviest I’ve ever raced in,” he said.

“I miss the sound. When you hear a V12 Ferrari, it’s like ‘argh’, it’s passion.”

He fondly recalled the visceral experience of watching Michael Schumacher race during Ferrari’s early 2000s dominance:

“As soon as we started with V6s—it’s a good direction for the world in terms of sustainability—but you can’t get away from the fact that the sound is not the same. Watching Schumacher’s 2003 Ferrari go past… it was unforgettable.”

Hamilton Follows in Schumacher’s Footsteps

Now racing for Ferrari, Hamilton’s start with the Scuderia has been mixed, though there are promising signs. He secured a fourth-place finish at Imola and appears increasingly at ease with the team, building strong relationships behind the scenes.

While Schumacher famously won five titles with Ferrari, Hamilton—now 40—is aiming to claim an unprecedented eighth world championship. Matching Schumacher’s record with Ferrari seems unlikely given his age, but Hamilton remains arguably the team’s most high-profile signing since the German legend.

Ferrari hasn’t won a championship since 2008, and with the 2026 rule changes potentially reshuffling the competitive order, Hamilton is hoping the team can leap ahead.

He’s not alone in voicing concern. Red Bull team principal Christian Horner recently supported a proposal to scrap the 2026 engine rules by 2028 in favor of sustainable fuel-powered V10 engines. Although the idea was dismissed, the concept could resurface in 2030.

Regardless of his views on the sport’s direction, Hamilton’s passion for racing and reverence for its history are clear—as is his determination to leave a lasting legacy in red.